The 29-year-old specifically used the term "froci", which is Italian slang and a derogative word which can mean "poof" or "fag".

AC Milan striker Cassano started in the Azzurri's 1-1 draw in their opening Group C game against Spain on Sunday.

Cassano's career is littered with controversy and he is renowned for his short temper. His coach at Roma and former England boss Fabio Capello nicknamed him Cassanata, a term regularly used by Italian journalists as a euphemism for an individual who jeopardises squad harmony.

In November last year, the former Real Madrid forward suffered ischemic-based cerebral damage and underwent minor heart surgery.